JEREMY HUNT has ordered an independent review into the growing persecution of Christians around the world.

The Foreign Secretary asked Bishop of Truro Philip Mounstephen to head the probe in an effort to find ways the Government can do more to protect believers suffering for their faith. His move followed an upsurge in religious violence, particularly in Africa, Asia and the Middle East, with more than 3,000 Christians around the world murdered for their faith last year. Christian women and children are particularly vulnerable, according to the Foreign Office.

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In many instances of religious persecution, victims were subjected to sexual violence.

Mr Hunt is demanding "ambitious policy recommendations" from the review.

He wants the Bishop's report, expected next Easter, to help shape Britain's foreign policy.

Mr Hunt said: "Britain has long championed international religious freedom.

"So often the persecution of Christians is a telling early warning sign of the persecution of every minority. I have asked the Bishop of Truro to look at how the Government can better respond to the plight of persecuted Christians. We can and must do more."

The review will seek to draw a map of the hotspots for persecution in countries across the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

The Rt Rev Mr Mounstephen said: "I'm honoured to have been invited to lead this review on an issue close to my heart. Part of the Christmas story tells how Jesus was himself the victim of persecution so it seems particularly timely to launch this review at this season.

"I'll be taking an objective look at how the British Government can better respond to the pressing plight of persecuted Christians around the world."

A priest preaches for the congregation on Christmas eve in Congo (Image: FREDRIK LERNERYD/AFP/Getty Images)

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, the Prime Minister's Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion or Belief, said: "This is an issue that resonates deeply.

"Seventy years ago during the partition of India, my family had to leave their home and livelihoods simply because of their faith. Seventy years later religious persecution is on the rise around the world.

"Our government has prioritised freedom of religion or belief and the review we are announcing today is about providing an objective view of Britain's support for the most vulnerable Christians globally.

"I am committed to not only standing up for the persecuted, but protecting and strengthening this fundamental human right, working with key partners around the world."